WORDS by KATARINA MANCAMA | IMAGES SUPPLIED by FEATURED BRANDS
Civilizations have used cosmetics in different forms for centuries: in religious rituals, to enhance beauty, and to promote good health. Ancient Egypt may be the best-known example of early cosmetics, with their use of oils and creams made from myrrh, thyme, chamomile, lavender, peppermint, cedar, rose, olive oil and almond oil. In Southern Africa, the Khoi-San have used indigenous plants for medicine, health and beauty since the beginning of time, some of which we are only just beginning to re-discover.
While you may think of France and similar countries when you think of modern body and beauty products, there are many fantastic brands developing in our part of the world, re-discovering the powers of nature and the wisdom of times gone by. We decided to delve into the world of African body & beauty products that are made with natural, indigenous ingredients and produced locally, and we were delighted with what we found.
AFRICOLOGY
Africology’s founder, Renchia Droganis, is a reiki counsellor that uses aromatherapy to heal her patients through therapy and self-empowerment exercises. She had a vision to create something that would help people without harming, something that was holistic and kind to the earth, and something that was free from deceit. That “something” was Africology.
Seeking inspiration from traditional healers and in the bounty that nature provides, Renchia started developing her own body and beauty products using only natural ingredients. Many consider her products to have a distinctive scent that is instantly recognisable. It has been described as “the soul of Africology”; something that cannot be recreated.
GODDING&GODDING
Spun by nature! Taking their inspiration from the ancient Chinese Tsang Dynasty and the natural harmony of Africa, GODDING&GODDING use pure silk as the basis for their skincare products. By blending silk, produced on their own farm, with African flower and plant extracts, they are creating products that make ordinary tasks into extraordinary rituals. Just like when the Chinese royals bathed in fragrant water infused with silk.
Rooibos, marula, baobab, aloe vera and fynbos are all known for their soothing and revitalising properties. Together with pure silk, they create products that heal, nourish and protect your skin from the inside out. GODDING&GODDING is a wonderful combination of ancient knowledge from some of the oldest cultures on earth and the healing power of nature.
HEALING EARTH
As the name suggests, this is a brand that harnesses the healing powers of Africa’s natural resources. Each plant is selected for its unique attributes; Kalahari melon for hydration, marula for softening and relaxing, African ginger for slimming, pinotage for its strong anti-oxidant qualities, African potato for healing and repairing, and mongongo nut for detoxifying.
A team of scientists are the brains behind Healing Earth, but the final product is completely natural with no added colours or chemicals. The approach is holistic, and aims to create luxurious products that nurture and bring health, not only for those that use them but also for the people of Africa and the land they live on.
LULU & MARULA
While the visual image of Lulu & Marula is fun and funky, don’t be fooled: they take their products very seriously. Using only natural ingredients, sourced locally and never tested on animals, Lulu & Marula develop small batches of simple but effective skin care. Their goal is to create a sensory experience that helps one slow down and be more mindful.
At the heart of the Lulu & Marula collection is marula oil; one of the richest natural sources of antioxidants (including vitamins C, E and essential fatty acids) that give you healthy, glowing skin. Marula oil protects your skin against polluted air, helps reverse sun damage, boosts cellular activity and hydrates at the deepest levels. In other words: it harmonises your skin, naturally.
RAIN AFRICA
Rain Africa believes that true beauty comes from within, from a heart and attitude of giving. Their products are designed to care for your skin and for your wellbeing, as well as that of others and the planet. Providing jobs, skills and, ultimately, hope to people living in poverty (women in particular) was at the heart of the creation of Rain Africa.
Their products draw their power from the Kalahari melon, mongongo nut, marula, baobab and fynbos. The plants are wild-harvested by women who have acquired their knowledge from traditional healers. The final product is a result of careful blending by hand, using only natural ingredients and adding nothing but love.
There is a common vision that shines like a beacon through these brands; a love for nature and an aversion to chemical additives; a commitment to uplifting people; and a rediscovery of ancient knowledge that has been lost to most of us for so long. It is clear that these proudly African products will benefit your body and your soul, but also Africa and her people.
